Renting a house - F.A.Q

I will be looking for rented accommodation in 6 months time. When should I start looking at properties and register my details?
It is worth doing your research on an area to find out what type of accommodation is available, what the typical rental value is for what you are looking for and seeing how often new accommodation comes available. It is always advisable to decide what you need before you actively start looking. Do your homework - what area would you like to be in? What is the maximum rent you can afford? Do you need parking or transport links?

Now is a good time to introduce yourself to local agents - they are an invaluable source of information and will be able to give advice on the availability of the type of property you will be looking for. Look out for local newspapers to give you contact names and numbers. Having contacted local agents, listen to their advice. If there is a constant supply of properties which suit your requirements, you may not have to start looking so far in advance. On the other hand, you may be advised to start looking sooner rather than later, to secure your ideal accommodation.

It is important to realise that taking up references and doing checks does take time, as does drawing up a tenancy agreement. Do not assume that you will be able to move into the property in a matter of days, even though it may be vacant.

I'm moving abroad & want to rent my property. How do I do this?
We have many clients who rent their property whilst they are living abroad. Our service can be adapted to suit your needs. We can find you a tenant, check references, arrange contracts, collect rents, carry out periodic inspections and oversee maintenance of your property whilst you are abroad. Our flexible service can be tailored to suit your requirements.

Rented accommodation often asks if the applicant is a smoker/non smoker. I do smoke but I always go outside, I never smoke inside. Should I classify myself as a smoker or non smoker?
If in doubt - please ask us. Some of our clients may be comfortable with you smoking outside, others may prefer non smokers.

Why do so many landlords not allow pets or children?
For many landlords, renting their property out is a huge decision. Property is often a person's single largest asset, and the landlord may prefer not to take on board the possibility of greater maintenance or repair costs associated with pets or children.

How do you check tenants are suitable and reliable?
We use a well-established scheme to run references on all prospective tenants before a tenancy commences.